The Hidden Home

The room looked like the pictures, which was a plus, and the staff were attentive and tried their best to help despite the language barrier. Still, check-in was confusing: no one was there when I arrived and communication beforehand was limited. The bathroom is very basic. The shower and toilet aren’t separated by a door, just a curtain, so everything gets wet after a shower and you’ll need flip-flops. Water pressure was weak, and I only had cold water. The entrance is open to everyone, and there’s no secure luggage storage, which didn’t feel safe. We clearly agreed on 100 baht for laundry, but they ironed the clothes without asking and then requested a higher amount. The owner later confirmed the original price was fine, but the extra money had already been taken. It’s okay for a very basic budget stay, but clearer communication and better security, beyond CCTV alone, would matter.

I never stayed there, but I’d booked a room ten months ahead for 19 nights. Two days before I was due to arrive, the hotel emailed to say plumbing work was needed and the room probably wouldn’t be ready for a few days, so they had to cancel. They didn’t say how long the work would take, and I doubt it would have lasted the full three weeks. I’d heard of hotels double-booking rooms and similar things before, so I was left scrambling to find somewhere at the last minute. The available place was in a location I didn’t like and cost 2.5 times as much. Booking.com offered only £50 compensation, and travel insurance doesn’t cover this kind of situation. It may be rare, but it can happen in high season, so perhaps booking two rooms with free cancellation is worth considering. I wouldn’t book this hotel again.

The room was beautiful and I liked the location, but the bathroom was in really bad shape. Water kept pooling across the bath area and wouldn’t drain by itself. The jet spray could burn a hole in your skin if you used it, and there was no water filter for refilling drinking water.

The peaceful feel and the host's genuine care are what made me stay longer. I was ready to leave Phuket, then added more days just for this place. The Hidden Home has a simple, cozy design, with local shops, 7-Eleven, and good food close by. It feels quiet while still having what you need within walking distance. A lovely fit for solo travelers, couples, or friends who'd rather have something authentic than a huge resort. It felt like home from the moment I arrived. I'll be looking for The Hidden Home again on my next Phuket trip.